Zeelugt families relocated as Gov’t clears Sea Defence and drainage reserve

Majority of the families occupying the Zeelugt Sea Defence and Zeelugt Drainage Reserve in Region Three have been resettled in a new housing area according to Minister of Housing Collin Croal.

The Minister visited the residents on Friday with Community Development Director, Mr. Gladwin Charles, along with several technical officers from the Ministry to address residents’ concerns.

During the visit, the Minister said he is satisfied with the progress made thus far, noting that while a few occupants have shown some reluctance to relocate, the overall exercise has been moving forward as planned.

At the start of the inventory exercise, a total of forty-eight (48) structures were documented along the Zeelugt Sea Defence and Drainage Reserve. As part of the relocation initiative, thirty-four (34) of these structures have since been demolished. Additionally, forty (40) households have been allocated house lots in a new housing area, with many families already resettled.

Residents expressed gratitude for the assistance provided by the Government throughout the relocation process.

“While acknowledging that relocating can present challenges for families, I assured residents that the Government remains committed to making the transition as smooth as possible and noted that discussions will continue with other agencies to further streamline the relocation process and provide additional support where necessary,” he said in a statement posted on his Facebook page.

The relocation initiative forms part of the Government’s broader efforts to address informal settlements in vulnerable areas.

In July 2024, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to resolving squatting at Zeelugt North, commonly referred to as Sideline Dam, in Region Three.

During an impromptu visit to the area, the President emphasized that the existing conditions were not conducive to a good quality of life and did not provide a safe environment for children. He pledged the Government’s continued support in relocating affected residents to safer and more developed housing schemes, ensuring improved living conditions for families.